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Depression can feel like life has no meaning or purpose. The following prayer asks God’s light to shine and warm, even in the deepest depression:

‘God of light, bring light and love into my inner darkness. Let me trust You are here, even if everything seems cold and empty. Let me focus on You and see Your light in my life. [Insert examples of God’s light in one’s life, such as a support group or pet]. Let me see light in You. Amen.’

One might offer this prayer when having a particularly bad day. The phrase ‘let me focus on You and see Your light’ might be repeated to combat negative thoughts or to bring comfort.

PRAYER FOR LOVED ONES OF A DEPRESSED PERSON

Depression can turn a loved one into an empty, hurting person. Supporting a loved one with depression is necessary for that individual’s well being, but hard on everyone who loves him or her. The following prayer asks God to comfort the loved ones of a depressed person:

‘God of love, as You were there with Jesus’ family at the cross, be with [insert depressed individual’s name] and his/her family in the darkness of depression. Hold all who love [insert individual struggling with depression] in Your arms. Let them trust that [insert depressed person] is in Your care, and bring strength, hope, and comfort to all who wait with [insert depressed person’s name] for relief. Amen.’

BLESSING FOR DEPRESSION TREATMENT

Choosing to seek treatment for depression is a brave step towards recovery from depression or any other mental or physical illness. Whether an individual chooses medication, hospitalization, therapy, or a combination of treatments, he/she is closer to an increased quality of life. The following prayer asks God to bless the treatment of depression and guide all involved:

‘God of power and might, be with [insert person seeking treatment for depression] as he/she is treated for depression. Let every breath he/she breathes bring new life and healing, with Your help and with the help of treatment. Guide all involved in his/her care [insert names of individuals involved such as a doctor, pastor, family member and others]. Let [insert depressed individual]’s healing begin. Amen.’

THANKSGIVING FOR HEALING OF DEPRESSION

Every breakthrough in treating depression such as leaving the hospital, returning to work, or finding the right dose of a medication is a cause for celebration. The following prayer thanks God for healing of depression:

‘God of glory, we rejoice that [insert breakthrough in depression treatment or other significant event in healing depression] has occurred. Thank you for the various resources and people who helped this to be possible [insert here, if desired]. May the light of Your love continue to shine on [insert individual struggling with depression] and all who support him/her, that light may continue to shine in the midst of depression, and everywhere. Amen.’

Depression can take time, energy, and support to overcome. With prayer, the Christian and his or her family can invite God into the journey of treating and healing depression.